Armistice

[Episode 10 | 1918 : Bertie]

Eddie speaks with Bertie about how lucky he is to survive the war with only a leg missing. Sid arrives to tell of the Armistice that signals the end of the war. The community celebrates the end of war with music, dancing and games, but not everyone can be happy at this time.

History activities [3]

Activity 1: Armistice day

Subtheme(s):
Australians at war; Historical events

The end of the First World War brought much joy and sorrow to many Australian families. Few were untouched by the war and many had experienced the loss of a loved one, or the homecoming of returned servicemen or servicewomen with serious injuries. In this episode Bertie feels the bitterness of the loss of his father and his neighbour Freddie, and happiness at the return of his injured brother.

Discover

Find out more about the First World War Armistice Day by visiting the following web sites:

Reflect

Students construct an oral First World War timeline spanning the era from the beginning of the war through to Armistice Day. Students research one of the following topics in small groups:

Find a story about what happened on Armistice Day.

Who was involved in making Armistice a reality? Where and when did this happen?

How was the news of the Armistice made known in Australia?

What did the Australian population do to celebrate Armistice?

Information gathered should be presented as fact sheets with point-form information and pictures. Information should be read out by each group in chronological order and recorded. The result will be an oral factual timeline.

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Activity 2: Anzac Day

Subtheme(s):
Australians at war; Celebrations; Historical events

'It's a long way to Tipperary' was a famous celebratory song from the First World War and is the background audio for this episode. This song was one of many propaganda and sentimental songs used to encourage soldiers to do their duty, remember home and families and commemorate achievements. Anzac Day became a special event for commemorating the campaigns of not only the First World War, but for all wars Australians have been involved in.

Discover

Find out more about Anzac Day and how it has shaped the Australian nation.

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Activity 3: Tipperary

Subtheme(s):
Art, music and literature; Australians at war; Celebrations

Discover

Investigate the music of the 1920s. Jazz, ragtime and Broadway musicals were popular genres of this era. The First World War stimulated the entertainment industry to produce music that celebrated success and freedom. In post-war Australia the influence of music and dance from the USA and Britain was evident and new styles captured the imagination of the young returned servicemen and servicewomen.

Reflect

Research and explore music websites showcasing music of the early 1920s. Discuss why jazz and ragtime music became so popular and why music became important in the recovery after the First World War. Look at the dance styles of the era and describe how they had changed from the pre-war era. Information can be found at these sites: